Health Watch is a public service of the Office of News and Publications and is intended to provide general information only and should not replace the advice of a medical professional. You should contact your physician if you have questions about any of these topics.

This week on Health Watch, we're talking about exercise, fitness and health. Exercise isn't just about losing weight, getting trim and keeping your heart healthy. It's also important for keeping your bones strong.

Dr. Naim Maalouf, a mineral metabolism expert at UT Southwestern Medical Center at Dallas, says exercise has multiple benefits for your bones. It can build and preserve bone mass, and by improving muscle strength, you can improve your balance. That can help prevent falls that can lead to broken bones.

The best exercises for stronger bones are weight-bearing exercises, like walking, running, dancing, jogging, hiking, tennis and stair climbing. If you haven't been exercising, you should check with a doctor before beginning an exercise program.

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July 2006

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